Studying at York
Experimental Archaeology in Context - ARC00087M
Module summary
During this module you will acquire the theoretical skills required to engage and reflect critically on your own experimental research aims and objectives. Experimental Archaeology (EA) is increasingly being used to address key questions in material culture research. These advances, alongside cutting-edge scientific techniques investigating the past functions of artefacts, are enriching our understanding of object life histories more than ever before.
Students have said of this module: “Some classes stick with you in your academic experiences and I know I will hold on to the memories of the insightful conversations and debates we all had. I can truly say it will be a fond memory of my Master's programme”
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Spring Term 2022-23 |
Module aims
This module aims to equip students with the essential theoretical skills required to critically reflect on experimental research and its application to the study of material culture.
Module learning outcomes
By the end of the module the students should:
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Have an understanding of why experimentation is a key aspect of artefact studies
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Be able to discuss gender and ethical issues in Experimental Archaeological (EA) research
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Know the limitations of EA research
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Show familiarity with current analytical approaches to the imaging of objects
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Have an understanding of the role of experimentation in reconstructing artefact biographies
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Understand and critique key differences between reenactment and EA
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Know the suitability of different dissemination mediums, including digital, for reaching target audiences in the Heritage Sector
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Developed and enhanced skills in oral presentations, discussion and debate
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Developed and enhanced team working skills from small group work and oral presentations
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Developed and enhanced comprehensive skills in producing powerpoint presentations and essay writing
Module content
During this module students will consider theoretical and ethical aspects of Experimental Archaeology research, the differences between reenactment and Experimental Archaeology, and how Experimental Archaeology can be employed to reconstruct artefact and house biographies. We will also explore the use of digital imaging and media as analytical tools and important forms of dissemination. You will reflect critically on whose past we are recreating through experimentation, and will develop your abilities to bring a critical perspective to current and past approaches to experimentation. Classes will be structured thematically and involve student-led seminars with interactive activities embedded into some sessions.
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Essay/coursework | 100 |
Module feedback
Feedback will be available within 6 weeks
Indicative reading
Outram, A. K. (2008). Introduction to Experimental Archaeology. World Archaeology 40: 1–6
Planel, P., & Stone, P. G. (2003). The Constructed Past: Experimental Archaeology, Education and the Public. London: Routledge
Bell, M. (2014). ‘Experimental Archaeology at the Crossroads: A Contribution to Interpretation or Evidence of ‘xeroxing’?’. In R. Chapman and A. Wylie (eds), Material Evidence. Learning from Archaeological Practice, pp.62–78. London: Routledge